Terra NeumaSonoma Coast Pinot Noir

2015

Vineyard Profile

Exposed to the rigors of the foggy Sonoma coastline, this sixth-generation family-owned ranch resides on a bluff above Bodega, a few miles from the Pacific Ocean. This marginal site on the edge of the Sonoma Coast, Demeter certified Biodynamic® and farmed by the Benzigers, is characterized by consistently low yields and extended hang times. May of 2015 was unseasonably cool, ultimately impacting flowering & fruit set, and an overall reduction in yields. Only four barrels of the exotic 2015 Terra Neuma were produced.

Tasting Notes

The 2015 Terra Neuma Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir provides pure expression of coastal terroir bathed frequently by marine layer and coastal winds. It appears in glass as a deep ruby with a secondary blue hue on the edge – unique for a Pinot. Young red fruits come to mind including early red cherry, ripe red raspberry, and fresh strawberry. Fruit harmoniously blends with earth conjuring up mushroom, forest floor, and fennel. While lifting the wine aromatically, mint and a hint of eucalyptus encourage another sip, as tea leaf and kola nut lend further spice and texture.

Cellar Notes

Grower:
Benziger

Appellation:
Sonoma Coast

Geographic Location:
Bodega

Varietal:
Pinot Noir

Selection:
115, 777

Vineyard Age:
Planted in 2002

Soil Type:
Goldridge, Sandy Loam,
Sandy Clay Loam

Harvest Date:
September 4th

Unfined
& Unfiltered

Wine Reviews

March 2017 | 95 points

“A totally dazzling wine, the 2015 Pinot Noir Terra Neuma is deep, plush and inviting, with serious intensity and texture. Bright red stone fruit, rose petal, mint and wild flowers are all laced together, but it is the wine’s vertical depth and overall intensity that stand out. Then again, that’s 2015. Today, the Terra Neuma is deeply expressive and flat-out delicious. It will be nearly impossible to resist, even in its youth.”